VNA 16/08/2010 - Vietnam is a strategic long-term partner of India, Indian Consul General, Abhay Thakur said at the 63rd anniversary of Independence Day of India that was held on August 16 in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Consul General mentioned India and Vietnam’s membership in Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, which was established to enhance the close relationship between India and Southeast Asia. He also expressed his gratitude for Vietnam’s support for a closer relationship between India and countries in the region.

Speaking at the event, deputy chairwoman of the Vietnam-India Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City Nguyen Thi Thanh Xuan affirmed that the Vietnamese people were always grateful to the Indian people’ precious contributions in the fight for national independence and construction over the past half of century.

In 2010, as ASEAN chair, Vietnam is making efforts to promote cooperation in various areas between ASEAN and India in general, and Vietnam and India in particular, she said./.